Jerry W. Kohls

Jerry Wayne Kohls, 75, passed away peacefully on June 19, 2026, at Dimensions Living in Appleton.

Born on November 23, 1950, in Columbus, Wisconsin, Jerry was the son of Leroy and Betty Kohls. He lived a life defined by hard work, determination, and unwavering love for his family.

Jerry dedicated much of his life to farming, a profession that was more than a job to him. It was a way of life. Through long days and changing seasons, he worked tirelessly to provide for his family and care for the land he loved. After retiring from milking cows, Jerry had the opportunity to fulfill another dream by working in the shop of an implement dealership, where his mechanical talents, knowledge, and work ethic continued to serve him well.

Although Jerry was a quiet man by nature, he enjoyed gathering with family and friends and could often be found discussing everything from farming and politics to local happenings and the lives of those he cared about. He genuinely enjoyed staying connected to the people around him.

Above all else, Jerry loved his family. He was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Kathy, a caring father, and a proud grandfather. He always wanted to make sure his family was taken care of and never stopped looking out for those he loved. His family knew they could count on him for support, guidance, and unconditional love.

Despite having only one hand, Jerry accomplished things that left others in awe. Family and friends often said that he could do more with one hand than most people could do with two. Whether farming, repairing equipment, tackling a project, or helping someone in need, he approached every challenge with grit, ingenuity, and determination. There wasn’t much he couldn’t fix, and there wasn’t much he wouldn’t try. The obstacles that might have discouraged others simply became another problem for Jerry to solve.

Those who knew Jerry knew there wasn’t much he couldn’t repair. Time and again, he would look at something others had given up on and somehow find a way to get it working again. His resourcefulness and mechanical abilities were admired by all who knew him and became one of the many ways he quietly helped those around him.

Jerry is survived by his daughters, Tina (Scott) Wankey and Lisa Pavey; his cherished grandchildren, Maggie Wankey, Emma Pavey, Wyatt Pavey, and Calvin Pavey; sister, Irene Schultz; nieces Jessica Martin, Sue Stuard, and Sara Palocios; nephew, Michael Schultz: his brother-in-laws and sister-in-laws, whose love, friendship, and faithful visits brought comfort and companionship throughout his life and especially during his final days; extended family members; and the many canine and feline “grandchildren” who became part of the family over the years.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Kathy Kohls, and his parents, Leroy and Betty Kohls.

A special and heartfelt thank you is extended to Jerry’s cousin, Ed Kohls, and his family. Through their generosity, support, and countless acts of kindness, Jerry was able to remain in the comfort of his home for an additional year before entering memory care. This gift of time was invaluable and will always be remembered with deep gratitude by his family.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Dimensions Living Appleton and Moments Hospice for the exceptional care, compassion, and kindness they showed Jerry. Their dedication provided comfort not only to Jerry, but also to those who loved him.

During a challenging chapter of life, it was a tremendous relief to know that Jerry was surrounded by people who genuinely cared for his well-being. The staff treated him with dignity, patience, and respect, and their friendly presence brought comfort to both Jerry and his family. We will always be grateful for the care and support they provided.

Jerry’s legacy lives on through the values he demonstrated every day: hard work, perseverance, dependability, and devotion to family. He taught those around him that obstacles can be overcome, problems can be solved, and that the people you love should always come first. He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever carried in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

A memorial gathering will be held at the Koepsell-Murray Funeral Home in Beaver Dam on Friday, June 26, 2026 from 10:30 a.m. until the time of the memorial service at 12 p.m.